โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
20
minutes
Domestic โ International
45
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Gliding and GA airfield near Pincher Creek in southern Alberta.
๐ Connection Tips
Cowley Airport serves as North America's premier mountain wave gliding destination, located 4.8 nautical miles northwest of Cowley at 3,876 feet MSL in southern Alberta's foothills. The facility operates dual runways 11/29 and 3/21, hosting the Lethbridge Soaring Club since 2013 with permanent hangar facilities and three aircraft: Schweizer SGU 2-22 trainer, Grob G103T two-seater, and Schweizer SGS 1-26 single-seater. No scheduled commercial service operates - access requires charter flights or ground transportation from Calgary International Airport (YYC) approximately 200 km northeast. The airport gained prominence for mountain wave phenomena created by strong westerly winds over the Rocky Mountains, regularly enabling glider flights exceeding 20,000 feet with climb rates over 1,000 feet per minute. Fall camps frequently achieve flights above 20,000 feet with some exceeding 30,000 feet, including the 1991 Canadian record of 34,400 feet set by Bruce Hea. The Alberta Soaring Council secured use-permits in 1972, transforming operations from nearby Cook's field. Weather information sources from Pincher Creek Airport 7.9 NM away due to lack of local METAR. Mountain geography creates challenging conditions including severe turbulence, rapid weather changes, and strong winds affecting both powered aircraft and glider operations. The facility attracts international gliding pilots during optimal wave seasons, particularly autumn months when conditions peak. Ground services minimal - fuel, accommodation, and dining require coordination in Pincher Creek or surrounding communities. Emergency services coordinate through municipal authorities given remote mountain location. Winter operations limited due to severe weather and equipment restrictions typical of Alberta foothills region.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Akulivik Airport (AKV) in Quebec, Canada, functions as a very small, remote regional airport serving the Inuit community of Akulivik. It is primarily a lifeline airport for essential services, cargo, and occasional passenger flights, connecting this isolated community to larger hubs in Northern Quebec, with scheduled services often provided by Air Inuit. The airport operates from a single, basic terminal building that provides minimal amenities for passenger processing. Crucially, Akulivik Airport faces frequent blizzards, and flights are sometimes rescheduled around storm systems. The layout is minimalist, with direct access from a small gravel landing strip to the boarding area, often a designated spot on the tarmac. There are no complex multi-terminal configurations or extensive ground facilities; all operations are conducted within this singular, basic setup. Walking times are negligible, typically mere seconds from arrival to aircraft, emphasizing its functional role in providing essential access to remote regions.\n\nSecurity procedures at AKV are minimal, consistent with its classification as a small, remote regional airfield. Formal CATSA (Canadian Air Transport Security Authority) security checkpoints are typically not present for the limited passenger traffic. Instead, security protocols focus on general aviation safety guidelines and direct coordination with local air carriers or charter operators like Air Inuit. There are no significant wait times for any checks. As a domestic airfield, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site; these functions would be handled at larger international airports for any international travel. Passengers should expect a highly informal and direct process, reflecting the very low volume of air traffic and the challenging operational environment of remote Northern Quebec.\n\nAmenities at Akulivik Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect any airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be extremely limited, possibly from a very basic local store in the community, and travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Seating in the waiting area is basic and often outdoors, and very limited. Accessibility features are rudimentary, primarily consisting of ground-level access. Travelers requiring assistance must coordinate thoroughly in advance with their air operator or local contacts. Family facilities, such as children's play areas or dedicated nursing rooms, are entirely absent. The airport's primary purpose is essential logistical support and access for remote communities, not passenger comfort or convenience.
๐ Connection Tips
Allow adequate time for connections. Check with airline for specific requirements.
โ Back to Cowley Airport